A: If you simply want to take snapshots without a lot of fuss to share special occasions with family and friends, choose either a compact 35mm camera or any of the new APS film cameras. There's a wide range of styles. Some models have fixed focal length lenses; others have zoom lenses which let you zoom in or out and frame the scene exactly the way you want it. Most come with autofocus and auto exposure, all you have to do is point and shoot. To understand the differences, read APS versus 35mm Cameras.

Beginners who want to seriously explore photography and technique should consider buying either an automatic 35mm SLR which can be operated in manual mode or a totally manual SLR (now becoming a rarity.) SLR is an abbreviation for single-lens-reflex camera, meaning the photographer views the scene through the same lens which takes the picture.

SLRs offer the ultimate in image control and creativity. Information about SLR manufacturers appears below.

Before 1985 all 35mm SLRs focused manually. Now most cameras feature autofocus lenses. Most autofocus lenses can also be focused manually if the photographer wishes to do so.

If you are just starting out, give consideration to buying a used camera and lens dating from the mid 80's or newer. Make sure any used equipment comes with a written warranty so you can be sure everything is in working order.

Autofocus/Manual Focus SLRs by Manufacturer
Canon: All Canon 35mm SLRs are autofocus models.
Contax: All SLRs are manual focus except the new AX model.
Cosina: Models accept manual focus K Mount lenses.
Konica: No longer makes SLRs, only compact 35mm cameras.
Leica: All models are manual focus.
Minolta: X Series are manual focus. Maxxum series are autofocus.
Nikon: Makes both autofocus and manual focus models.
Olympus: All Olympus SLRs are manual focus. (OM series.)
Pentax: All models are autofocus except the ZX-M.
Ricoh*: Models accept manual focus K Mount lenses.
Yashica: Makes two manual focus models.
*Ricoh announced in February 1999 it was withdrawing from the 35mm film camera business after 50 years and will concentrate on digital cameras.

Examples of totally manual 35mm cameras include the Pentax K-1000 (no longer available new), the Ricoh KR-5 and the Contax S2. The Ricoh accepts K Mount lenses - the same mount found on Pentax manual focus lenses.

Another Opinion
Philip Greenspun's "What Camera Should I Buy" is an excellent overview for beginners seeking to buying a camera, and covers the relative merits of different styles and brands.